POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AMONG ACADEMICALLY-CHALLENGED STUDENTS IN A TERTIARY INSTITUTION IN NIGERIA

This cross-sectional study explored the prevalence and impact of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among carryover nursing students at Federal University Otuoke, Nigeria. A sample size of 133 students was determined from a total population of 901 nursing students using Taro Yameni's formula, with a two-stage sampling technique employed. Data was collected using a self-developed, 34-item questionnaire, with validity confirmed by the research supervisor and reliability tested using Cronbach's alpha. The analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20, with Chi-square tests to assess associations. Findings revealed that 36.1% of students experienced flashbacks related to stressful academic situations, while 37.6% often avoided reminders of stress. Nightmares were rare (6.0%), but feelings of detachment were noted by 46.6%. Physical reactions like heart pounding were reported by 52.6%, and sleep difficulties by 45.1%. The cumulative PTSD risk score was 2.37, indicating a low overall risk, with strong support systems reported by 81.2% of students. Coping strategies included seeking help from friends and family (42.1%) and using positive self-talk (36.1%). PTSD symptoms moderately impacted academic performance, with 63.9% reporting concentration issues and 37.6% experiencing class attendance challenges. Time management and peer communication were also affected, and 20.3% of students had considered dropping out due to stress. The study concludes that while PTSD symptoms are present at a moderate level, their impact on academic performance is significant.